Lessons from Mexico on Community and Worship

Vicky Squirrell, a parishioner from St Felix in Felixstowe, recently returned from a visit to Jalisco, Mexico, where she had the opportunity to experience the local Catholic community’s approach to faith and worship.

During her time there, she attended Mass in Puerto Vallarta and visited the Cathedral in Guadalajara. She was particularly struck by the strong and visible presence of the Jubilee 2025 celebrations, with clear reminders of this significant year throughout the churches. This sense of joy and dedication to the Jubilee was uplifting and inspiring to witness.

Despite Mexico being a predominantly Catholic country, Vicky noted that they, like parishes in England, face challenges in maintaining engagement and strengthening their faith communities. However, one striking difference was the way in which Mexican parishes actively respond to these challenges, particularly through their deep-rooted commitment to supporting local communities.

A significant example of this was seen during Sunday Mass, where part of the offertory included the presentation of food parcels. These parcels, containing basic essentials, were funded through donations made by parishioners as they arrived for Mass. It was moving to see as many as 30 parcels brought forward, reflecting a strong spirit of generosity and care for those in need. This practice not only provided practical support but also reinforced the communal aspect of faith, making charity and solidarity an integral part of the Mass itself.

Another remarkable aspect of parish life in Mexico was the way Communion and Confirmation preparation was incorporated into the Sunday Mass. This approach encouraged entire families to attend together, strengthening their shared faith experience. Although the young people sat together and were actively involved in the liturgy, the homily was specifically directed towards them in a way that also engaged and formed the wider congregation. This method of integrating faith formation within the Mass created a dynamic and inclusive atmosphere, fostering a strong sense of belonging and continuity in religious education.

Although Vicky’s understanding of Spanish is still developing, she was deeply moved to recognise the messages of Pope Francis being echoed through the prayers and homilies. This reinforced for her the universal nature of the Church – how, despite cultural and geographical differences, the core values and teachings remain the same across the world.

Reflecting on these experiences, Vicky expresses a hope that similar initiatives could be embraced in England. Strengthening local communities through acts of service, making religious education a more integrated and engaging part of parish life, and fostering a greater sense of unity with the global Church would be invaluable steps forward. By drawing inspiration from these practices, parishes in England could enhance their sense of mission, deepen their commitment to social outreach, and more visibly live out their faith in daily life.

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